Please note that GPs do not treat dental issues, such as abscesses, toothaches, or other dental pain. The treatment of dental problems is the responsibility of dentists, not GP practices.
In an emergency:
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Contact NHS 111, who can advise you on urgent dental care and connect you with an urgent dental service if needed.
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Do not contact your GP for dental problems, as they cannot provide routine, urgent, or emergency dental treatment.
If you have a dentist:
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Contact your usual dentist as many offer emergency appointments and can provide care if clinically necessary.
If you do not have a dentist or cannot get an urgent appointment:
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Call NHS 111 for advice and access to urgent dental services.
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If you are experiencing difficulties locating a permanent dentist accepting NHS patients, call NHS England Customer Contact Centre on 0300 311 2233 and select option 1.
Additional advice:
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For dental pain, over-the-counter pain relief may be used temporarily, but it is important to have the underlying problem assessed and treated by a dentist.
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Keep your dentist’s contact details handy for urgent care.
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If you are unsure whether your problem is urgent, NHS 111 can provide guidance on the safest next steps.
We understand dental issues can be distressing, and we hope this information helps you access care quickly and safely.
For more information visit: NHS Dental Advice